Main vs. Intermediate Conclusion on the LSAT
Some LSAT arguments have two conclusions. Learn to tell the main conclusion from the intermediate (sub-)conclusion using the "because" test.
2026-06-01 · 7 min read
Why two conclusions confuse students
Harder LSAT arguments include an intermediate conclusion: a claim that is supported by evidence and then itself supports the main conclusion. Both look like conclusions, so questions that ask for the main conclusion bait you with the intermediate one.
The "because" / "therefore" test
Find the two candidate claims and link them with "because." The arrangement that makes sense reveals the structure. "We should fund the program (main) because it reduces costs (intermediate)" works; the reverse does not.
Equivalently, the main conclusion is the claim that everything else — including the intermediate conclusion — ultimately supports. Nothing in the argument supports a claim above the main conclusion.
Worked example
"Studies show the drug lowers blood pressure. Since lower blood pressure reduces stroke risk, the drug reduces stroke risk. Therefore, doctors should prescribe it more often."
Intermediate conclusion: the drug reduces stroke risk (supported by the studies, supports the next step). Main conclusion: doctors should prescribe it more often. The final recommendation is what the whole argument is built to establish.
Verbloom maps these layers visually so the supporting claim stops masquerading as the main point.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell the main conclusion from an intermediate one?
The main conclusion is supported by everything else and supports nothing further in the argument. An intermediate conclusion is supported by evidence but then goes on to support the main conclusion.
Does the main conclusion always come last?
No. It can appear anywhere — first, middle, or last. Use the because/therefore test rather than position to identify it.
Why does this matter for other question types?
Role-of-a-claim, method-of-reasoning, and main-point questions all depend on correctly separating the main conclusion from supporting claims.
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